Notes: The 2016 version of the Air-King is unlike any other reference in the model's line. Unlike its predecessors, the ref. 116900 is topped with a sportier dial that features 5-minute hour markers in lume, white gold Arabic markers at the 3, 6, and 9 positions, and the Rolex logo and seconds hand in green. The dial features a style that is very similar to the cockpit instruments created by Rolex for the Bloodhound Super Sonic Car that broke the land speed record a few years ago. The dial alone makes this used Rolex an interesting conversation starter. Among its other modern upgrades are a later 40mm Oyster case crafted from Oystersteel and a calibre 3131 perpetual movement, complete with a Parachrom hairspring and an anti-magnetic shield around the movement itself.

Mechanism: Calibre 3131 is a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. Like all Rolex Perpetual movements, the 3131 is a certified Swiss chronometer, a designation reserved for high-precision watches that have successfully passed the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) tests. Its architecture, in common with all Oyster watch movements, makes it singularly reliable.

Family Notes: The Rolex Air-King history dates back to 1945. During this time, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual was becoming increasingly popular among combat pilots for its durable case and easy-to-read dial. Hans Wilsdorf appreciated the fact that many brave pilots opted for a Rolex timepiece and chose to honor their loyalty with the addition of the Rolex "Air Series", which also included the iconic Air-King